Here is the box. It shows that it is a Revell model, 1:48 scale, a skill level 2 and for ages ten and up. The skill level two means it is not an absolute beginner model (skill level 1) but still a pretty easy build.

Here is what is inside the box. We have the instruction sheet and the decal sheet. The big bag contains the various parts for the helicopter. And the small bag contains the clear plastic parts which are the windows and windshield.

The decal sheet is a fun part of making a model. These aren't stickers. You don't peel and stick them. You soak them in water then apply them. I will show you how to do that.

Inspect everything

The first thing you should do when making a plastic model is look over and inspect everything. This means looking over the instructions and inspecting the plastic parts. This familiarity will give you some level of comfort and understanding when making the model. And inspecting the various plastic parts is important so you can see if any parts are missing.

Start by washing the parts gently in soapy water. You see here in this picture I am washing a sprue of parts. "Sprue" is the name for that full segment of plastic parts.

Lay the wet sprues on paper towels to let them air dry. Don't try to dry them by hand. You can inadvertantly knock some of the smaller parts right off the sprues.

Testors Plastic Cement - Testers is made in America, quality since 1929 Testers plastic cement is used for DIY projects, model kit building and craft projects The value pack includes two tubes of cement with 4 precision glue tips.

Beginning scale modelers need a basic set of skills that they can build on as they continue through the hobby. Essential Skills for Scale Modelers, written by FineScale Modeler's Aaron Skinner, lays the foundation needed to build, paint, weather, and display all types of models. This technique-driven how-to book contains a variety of projects that allow modelers to put their new found skills to use.